Wellness Programs are the New Defense Against Workers’ Compensation Claims

Wellness Programs are the New Defense Against Workers’ Compensation Claims

Wellness Programs: The New Defense Against Workers’ Compensation Claims

By Kelley Palmer, Wellness Specialist

Most employers seek a return on their investment from company wellness programs in the form of reduced claims and health care premiums. But did you know that company wellness programs can also lower workers’ compensation and disability-related costs? It’s true. Healthier employees have fewer workers’ compensation claims.

Employees who are in poor physical condition are more prone to sprains/strains than those employees that are physically fit.

A person who is physically fit with strong back muscles can pick up a 50lb object and move it without a problem.

Moving the same object by a person in poor physical condition can result in a herniated disk if they do not have the back muscles developed to support the spine.

If that same person is obese, you can add on an additional six months of total disability benefits and doctor’s visits to the claim while they work to lose the required weight needed to have a successful surgical repair1.

Studies show that:

Workers’ comp claims rise with a worker’s BMI (Body Mass Index), studies reveal that smokers are more likely to have a workplace injury and that

A person with uncontrolled diabetes who gets injured on the job could be the result of dizziness or poor concentration related to their condition.

A smoker with a fracture will take much longer to heal than a non-smoker.

Keeping the workplace safe from hazards and in compliance is just one piece of the puzzle. Managing employee health risk factors can be a very effective tool in driving down workers’ comp costs and keeping employees safer in the workplace2.

Breaking down the silos that may exist between the Human Resources departments that handle wellness programs and the Risk Management departments that handle worker’s compensation claims can often be a challenge. Both may operate independently of each other, but have goals to keep their employees safe and healthy. Signal’s wellness partner, Unify Health Service, is the resource to assist in developing comprehensive employee wellness programs that targets occupational safety while jointly addressing the chronic health conditions that drive up your workers’ compensation costs.

The Author | Bri Harris

Place Referrals by

Phone: (888) 314-5571

Fax: (904) 518-3731

Client Testimonials

"We have worked with Unify for over a year now and we are delighted with the work carried out. Our company, Seaboard Marine Ltd. is an Import/Export company so our industry is very demanding and ever-changing. Unify has helped us establish several effective injury prevention programs which have reduced our cost greatly." - Rosa Iglesias, Seaboard Marine-Human Resources

"If you are looking for a no hassle method to follow your cases, choose Unify Health Services. Great team, great ethics, speedy and efficient reports. An all over win, you can’t lose with Unify." - Angie - Nurse Case Manager

"The referral team is awesome! I send my information and the injured worker has his/her appointment made. Then they are contacted by Unify with the information. I love those ladies! Thank you" TJ- Work Comp Adjuster

“I just wanted to thank you again for your prompt response and delivery of the FCE “protocol” that our client requested! The client was SO happy to return and have that document …stating it was “exactly what she needed”. They are a high end (and sometimes difficult client) so we LOVE LOVE LOVE when we can actually meet their expectations. You are truly the best and we really appreciate how attentive you are to our client’s needs. That’s what makes your team our “go-to” for all FCE matters. Just wanted to take the time, to let you know how much we enjoy working with you!” -C.B., Supervisor at a National Medical Expert Organization

UHS Newsletter

Thanks for signing up!

Email Address

First Name

About Us

Unify Health Services is a women-owned small business that brings together a team of experts with over 70 years combined experience in injury management. Our team assists employers in producing measurable results as they address their return to work obstacles. These results are achieved by reducing workers’ compensation claims costs through providing pre and post injury solutions.